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Self-proclaimed government watchdog Robert Davis has a new job in Lansing - he's now a state lawmaker's aide.

State Rep. LaTanya Garrett hired Davis in July as a policy analyst making $41,000 a year -- his first full-time job since being released from prison last year for stealing nearly $200,000 as a board member for the Highland Park school district.

Davis is right for the job, Garrett said, because he is well-educated and has a commendable work history that includes jobs with Wayne County Commissioner Martha Scott and the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) Council 25.

"The United States is a country of second chances. I don't want you to focus on this man's past," said Garrett, a Democrat who represents Highland Park and part of Detroit. "I want you to drive home the good things Mr. Davis has done."

Over the last decade, Davis has become synonymous with litigation, filing more than 100 lawsuits against various public officials as part of what he calls a quest for transparent, honest government. He filed several lawsuits in 2013 against state officials, including Gov. Rick Snyder, for their role in Detroit's financial crisis.

Davis said he will continue pushing for open government on his own time through his nonprofit, A Felon's Crusade for Equality, Honesty and Truth.

But Garrett said Davis must speak with her if those pursuits could affect her relationships with Snyder or other lawmakers.

As a policy analyst, Davis' responsibilities include reviewing proposed bills, research and helping with constituent issues.

"It's very exciting to get back in the mix and I'm very thankful that Representative Garrett had enough confidence in my ability to assist in the needs of her constituents," Davis said.

Before he went to prison, Davis worked several years for Garrett's cousin, Al Garrett, as a staff representative for AFSCME. Al Garrett was the union's president but is now retired. Rep. Garrett said her cousin had no influence in her hiring of Davis.